American Correctional Association Resources

Cage Your Rage: An Inmate’s Guide to Anger Control

By Murray Cullen, American Correctional Association, 1992.

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Summary:

Many inmates struggle with uncontrolled anger and aggressive behavior.  In fact, this issue may have contributed to their incarceration.  This workbook provides practical instruction about how inmates can be angry, but avoid aggressive behavior.  In addition, it helps them to recognize situations in which they may have gotten angry unnecessarily and discusses how they can change their attitudes to avoid becoming angry needlessly. The workbook enables inmates to explore the causes for their anger, such as childhood experiences and pain, and describes what may be internal and external triggers.  In addition, it explains the difference between anger and aggressive actions and how to avoid letting anger lead to violence.  Inmates will learn relaxation techniques, guidance about how to change negative thinking patterns, and other skills to help them manage their anger successfully.

Why does FASTEN recommend this resource?

When an inmate struggles with anger and aggression, a crucial part of his preparation for a successful return to his community and family is the development of anger management skills.  This well-written workbook provides straightforward information about the causes of anger and how an inmate can control it.  It encourages the inmate to engage in extensive self-examination by asking thought-provoking questions and giving inmates the opportunity to write detailed responses.  Faith-based practitioners can utilize this resource in their pre-release programs to help inmates learn how to avoid engaging in violent and destructive behaviors that may have contributed to their imprisonment.